Paudie Coffey (Fine Gael)

Yesterday the Leader promised a debate on competitiveness in the economy. I respectfully suggest this is probably too little too late and that today might see an opportunity to address competitiveness, whereby businesses could begin to compete and create and protect jobs again. Today the people will pay the price for what essentially has been incompetent and misguided leadership in the past ten years. All the indications are that a cut, slash and burn approach will be taken, which will inflict obvious further pain on families and those who are most vulnerable. There appears to be no hope for the unemployed, no stimulus measures and no packages or incentives to create jobs. This Christmas families are fearful and worried about their futures and those of their children. They seek a focus, confidence building measures, as well as job protection and creation. I suggest these should be the strong messages that should be heard around both Houses today.

I agree with Senator McFadden that the Government has engaged in an obvious display of contempt for the people in the manner in which it is prostituting deals with Independent Members such as the deal on the hospital for Kenmare. While all Members have examples from their own districts, people in Waterford have been promised a hospital for the elderly for more than ten years at St. Brigid's Hospital. However, wards were closed there this year. Such side deals display pure contempt because throughout the year the Minister states this is a matter for the HSE. This simply is not good enough and is the reason people are so angry. They do not see true, proper and fair governance and are tired of the cute hoorism that has been evident for the past ten years. Members simply are reflecting their views. It is about time there was proper, true and fair leadership. Perhaps today's budget might provide an opportunity for it to commence but I greatly doubt it.